Eggplant Adobo
Cooking With KidsA rich and layered rendition of a Filipino classic, marrying the tender texture of roasted eggplant with savory ground meat in a deep reduction of rice vinegar, soy, and generous helpings of sliced garlic. This dish achieves a masterful balance between refined acidity and subtle sweetness, making it a centerpiece for elegant hosting or a comforting family meal that brings authentic East Asian flavors to your table.
- Prep
- 45 min
- Servings
- 4
- Difficulty
- Medium
Instructions
- 1Slice 1 lb. small Japanese or Italian eggplant (about
- 2into quarters lengthwise, then cut crosswise into 2"-wide pieces. Place in a medium bowl. Add 1 Tbsp. sugar, 1 tsp. Diamond Crystal or ½ tsp. Morton kosher salt, and ½ tsp. freshly ground black pepper. Toss to evenly coat eggplant and let sit at room temperature at least 20 minutes and up to 2 hours.
- 3
Nutrition
- Calories
- 721
- Protein
- 23.4g
- Carbs
- 36.7g
Recommended Equipment & Products
- Cast iron Dutch oven
Disclosure: these are currently regular search links, not affiliate links, and we do not earn a commission. Check current prices, availability and product labels before buying.
Family cooking
Cooking With Kids
Simple ways children can join safely, with adult guidance.
Age 3-5
Small helper
- Mash soft ingredients
- Wash fruit and vegetables
Age 6-8
Kitchen explorer
- Stir a batter
- Measure simple ingredients
Chef tips
Sauté the eggplant cubes in a hot pan with a little oil until golden before adding the sauce; this prevents them from getting mushy and maintains a wonderful meaty texture. For a complete meal, serve over steamed white rice to soak up the tangy sauce. You can also add seared tofu cubes to enrich the dish with protein.
Culinary reasoning
A rich and layered rendition of a Filipino classic, marrying the tender texture of roasted eggplant with savory ground meat in a deep reduction of rice vinegar, soy, and generous helpings of sliced garlic. This dish achieves a masterful balance between refined acidity and subtle sweetness, making it a centerpiece for elegant hosting or a comforting family meal that brings authentic East Asian flavors to your table.
